Seward ParkThe mileage for this ride is 8 miles with few challenging hills and spectacular scenery. Every Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., May through September, except July 5, July 26 and August 2, along Lake Washington Blvd, from Mt. Baker Beach to Seward Park traffic is restricted for the safety of bike riders. There is more information if you click Celebrate Summer Streets with Bicycle Sundays.

Directions to Seward Park

I you are coming from downtown Seattle you need to head south down 2nd Avenue and turn right onto Jackson. Follow Jackson for almost a mile and then turn right onto Rainier Avenue. Continue on Rainer Avenue for about 4 miles where you will see South Orcas Street, where you will turn left. Continue on Orcas to the very end and Seward Park will be on your right. There is parking just inside the gate and throughout the park.

Seward Park

Take time to enjoy Seward Park. If you ride through the park you will see 300-acres of forest, some of it old-growth. The park is ringed by a 3-mile paved bike and walking path. Even during the busier parts of the day it is easy to get lost in your thoughts on this walk, take time to sit on one of the benches and enjoy the very serene lake views. There are always great views of Lake Washington, but the highlight from the south side of the park on a clear day is a majestic view of Mount Rainier. In summer, the north side of the park features a beach area with lifeguards. There are many hiking trails through the forest providing an opportunity to see eagles’ nests.

The bike ride along Lake Washington from Seward Park to Washington Park Arboretum

Leave the park heading north on your bike on Lake Washington Boulevard South with Lake Washington on the east side. There are many opportunities to stop along the lake for more views. Continuing on Lake Washington Boulevard, you will pass a several marinas. If you stop to stroll along the path that follows the lake you can watch the boats, as well as the ducks and other birds that call the lake home.

Lake Washington Boulevard veers through Colman Park. Here you will find beach access and picnic tables. While the curves the boulevard takes through the park are fun, follow Lakeside Ave S. The two roads will rejoin shortly. For the next little stretch, homes along the lake obstruct your view. In moments, you will pass under the I-90, as known as the Mountains to Sound Greenway.

After passing the next marina, Lake Washington follows the road again and in about a half of a mile, you will arrive at Madrona Park. Madrona Park is set on a forested hillside which leads to a beach on the side of Lake Washington. During the summer, there is a lifeguard on duty making this a great stop for kids. Shortly up the road is Denny Blaine Park which also has beach. After Denny Blaine Park, Lake Washington Boulevard forks into multiple paths. Be sure to stick on Lake Washington Boulevard through Lakeview Park.

In about a half of a mile, the road will intersect with Madison E. To enjoy another great beach on Lake Washington, turn right and head to Madison Park, this is a very popular spot on a hot day. If you have kids in tow, be sure to stop at the playground across the street. It’s complex and colorful equipment make it a great place for kids of all ages. The casual, urban Madison Park Village offers dining options.

You can also continue across Madison into the Washington Park Arboretum. The 230-acre Washington Park Arboretum is truly a magical place with plenty of areas to explore. With over 40,000 trees and shrubs Walk through the Joseph Witt Winter Garden south of the visitor center, observe the wetlands and wildlife or sign up for one of the education programs. You can also park at the visitor center and do this ride going south.